Kawasaki has presented the last of its 2019 range at Milan’s EICMA show in Italy, including all-new releases in the Z400 nakedbike, plus W800 Cafe and Street models.

Created with the benefit of Kawasaki’s unique Sugomi design philosophy which matches every engineering highpoint with a styling success, the Z400 is powered by a responsive, rider-friendly 399cc parallel twin engine complete with an assist and slipper clutch.

Building on the formidable reputation of the outgoing Z300, the new Z400 is both lighter and more powerful than its predecessor.
Wrapped in a hallmark Kawasaki trellis chassis redolent of the mighty Ninja H2, the Z400 benefits from light, predictable handling plus low weight, the ideal combination for a machine focused on the A2 licence category.

With an easy reach to the ground stance, the Z400 possesses lithe handling characteristics and great ergonomics that belie its impressive large volume bodywork styling approach. For the rider it’s not just manoeuvrability that appeals, the view over the handlebars is complemented by compact multi-function meter panel.

Featuring a digital speedometer plus gear position indicator, additional convenience is supplied courtesy of indication of fuel consumption and an economical riding indicator among other rider-centric features.

Casting a confident light ahead, the LED headlamp of the new Z400 shines like a beacon into the distance from a machine that shares the same appealing and ominous crouching stance so characteristic of the entire seven bike Z range from the new Z125 all the way to the mighty Z1000R.

Adding meat to the bone of a remarkable seven model Z family, the Z400 is set to be the middle-weight naked “go-to machine” in the coming season.

One of the most enduring and identifiable Kawasaki motorcycle families, the Kawasaki parallel twin, air-cooled W stable will house two more thoroughbreds in 2019 bearing the names W800 Street and W800 Cafe.

Having little in common with previous iterations, the newly born Euro4 compliant twins are 90 percent new with a whole host of styling, technical and practical changes, many of which are, at first, hard to detect.

Sharing a completely new chassis, each machine has powerful new brakes – including a rear disc for the first time on a W – as well as ABS and, in another nod to contemporary riding, LED lighting.

Celebrating the fact that original never goes out of style both the stripped for action 773cc bevel driven camshaft W800 Street and W800 CAFE can trace their roots back over half a century to the original 1966 W1 650; at the time the largest capacity four stroke machine manufactured in Japan.

Established as a highly regarded all-rounder, the Versys 1000 takes on the competition in 2019 with a radical upgrade focusing on a wide range of refinements and innovations making it the most accomplished iteration yet created. With a unique to class four-cylinder across the frame format at its heart, the adventure focused 1043cc machine now benefits from electronic throttle valves which allow the adoption of electronic cruise control.

The useful addition of Kawasaki’s IMU linked cornering management function facilitates a total engine and chassis management package. Practically speaking, the ergonomic package is well thought through with an adjustable screen for protection and, in the comfort stakes, two possible seat heights thanks to an optional Ergo-Fit lower than standard seat available as a genuine accessory.

Bringing the comfortable long travel suspension equipped machine to a halt, the KIBS intelligent anti-lock brakes rely for the first time on powerful radial mount front brake callipers while twin LED headlamps ensure that the route ahead is clearly defined.

Defining what the next step is in the Versys dynasty, is the job of the highly specified Versys 1000 SE, the top of line machine for 2019. Taking the Versys concept to a new level, not only are a TFT meter panel and LED cornering lights part of the specification, but also electronically controlled front and rear suspension is fitted for the first time along with a Kawasaki quick shifter for fast and seamless changes up and down the gearbox allied to an assist and slipper clutch common to both variants of the Versys 1000.

With smartphone connectivity between rider and machine now possible thanks to the new Kawasaki Rideology App, Versys 1000 SE owners can not only adjust their suspension via their smartphone screen but also see riding logs, service and oil change intervals plus clever additional items like the display of received phone calls and incoming email arrival.

With equipment levels similar to a top end luxury car, it will come as no surprise to learn that the Versys 1000 SE is also equipped with Kawasaki’s new Highly Durable paint which, via a trampoline effect of still semi-liquid molecules, can change the appearance of light scuffs back to standard looking paintwork using a high-tech recovery process.

Touring focus on the Versys 1000 SE is ably handled with clever additions such as a 40W power source for powering not just satellite navigation systems but a host of other power hungry essential items. Additionally the standard fitment of grip heaters, hand guards and a large windscreen on this top of range model (all available as accessories for the Versys 1000) ensures that when the weather changes for the worse the Versys 1000 SE rider can rely of comfort, safety and convenience as the kilometres rush by.

With the stated intent to supercharge your journey, the third iteration of the successful Ninja H2 SX family has been dubbed the Ninja H2 SX SE+. Targeting the heights of touring excellence, the Supercharged 998cc machine has been conceived to be equally at home dismissing hundreds of highway kilometres or a complete range of mountain roads in a single day.

Literally a ‘tour de force’, the Ninja H2 SX SE+ features the most advanced array of rider aids yet assembled on a Kawasaki tourer. Headed up by KECS electronic control suspension, the new system has ability to adjust from the handlebar, or as part of a suite of functions offered by Kawasaki’s new Bluetooth rider-to-machine Rideology App.

The functionality of the App expands way beyond suspension adjustment and includes machine logs, service interval reminders, riding logs and even a note of received incoming calls and emails.

Adding to the smartphone pairing function and information screens, the colour TFT meter panel of Kawasaki’s hyper tourer shows an array of functions from the expected to such engaging features as bank angle, supercharger boost indicator, average fuel consumption plus a handy economical riding indicator for when full gas turns to frugal.

Counting on its accomplished trellis style chassis for confidence inspiring handling, the job of halting progress in 2019 has been allocated to Brembo’s latest Stylema front callipers which boast cooler, more consistent operating temperatures plus an even more direct feel at the brake lever.

Additionally, the Ninja H2 SX SE+ also benefits from body panels treated with Kawasaki’s new Highly Durable Paint that allows minor scuffs to self-repair thanks to a layer of paint which acts like a trampoline absorbing abrasions and then flowing back into the damaged areas.

Boasting a balanced Supercharged engine, the 100 percent in-house designed and manufactured integrated supercharger has been fine tuned to offer not simply incredible high rev performance but also manageable low and mid speed response plus remarkable fuel economy, surely the best of all possible worlds. Australian pricing and availability on all three models is yet to be confirmed. For more information, visit www.kawasaki.com.au.

Honda has revealed its 2019 collection of motorcycles at EICMA in Milan, Italy, today, with the introduction of two new model names and three extensively upgraded models, which bring new energy to the middleweight area of Honda’s uniquely broad and deep product line-up.

Having introduced the CB1000R, CB300R and CB125R trio of naked models for 2018, Honda now brings its unique ‘Neo Sports Cafe’ look to the middleweight arena with the CB650R. The styling language is modern and minimalist, and mixes cafe racer inspirations and a super-compact trapezoid form to eye-catching effect.

The in-line four-cylinder engine is fully on display, and the signature round headlight and sculpted fuel tank underline the ‘Neo Sports Cafe’ family feel.

With the premium look comes premium specifications, including 41mm Showa upside-down Separate Function forks, radial-mount four-piston front brake callipers, Honda Selectable Torque Control, assist/slipper clutch and ultra-modern instruments. The result is a desirable naked middleweight with a unique combination of looks, performance and top-line specifications.

Another new model name on the Honda line-up is the CBR650R sports middleweight. It features new styling which draws strongly on the CBR1000RR Fireblade for its sharp, aggressive lines and extended side fairings, plus super-short rear section and narrow dual LED headlights.

The CBR650R is 6kg lighter than the CBR650F that it replaces, with a sportier riding position thanks to handlebars repositioned 30mm forward, and footpegs moved both rearward and higher.

Its classically-Honda in-line four-cylinder engine revs 1,000rpm higher, producing five percent more top end power with peak output of 70kW arriving at 12,000rpm ensuring that – along with the sculpted looks and honed chassis – the new machine’s new ‘R’ designation is well deserved.

Honda’s lively parallel twin 500cc engine has been sold in over 75,000 motorcycles in Europe since its arrival in 2013. Having first arrived in the LAMS friendly CB500F, CBR500R and CB500X, for 2019 the engine has stronger power and torque between three and seven thousand rpm, and powers the light middleweight trio in upgraded packages with higher specifications and stronger roadster, sport and adventure identities.

All three models now have new rear suspension, assist/slipper clutch, full LED lighting, modernised LCD instruments with gear position and shift-up indication, and new dual-exit muffler for a richer engine note.

The CB500F roadster has sharper new styling from front to back, with more angled nose fairing and side shrouds that interlock cleanly with the fuel tank. The CBR500R is also re-styled: it’s narrower and sharper with strong Fireblade styling inspiration and a sportier riding position.

The CB500X compact adventurer, meanwhile, has a much stronger ‘X factor’ thanks to a new 19-inch front wheel, longer suspension travel front and rear, slimmer seat, wider steering angle and tougher, more rugged fairing which also improves wind protection.

The 500cc and 650cc engine platforms constitute 35 percent of Honda’s large motorcycle sales in Europe. These five new products for 2019 offer a well-rounded balance of exciting middleweight performance for riders of all experience levels, while providing potential stepping stones to Honda’s flagship roadster, adventure and sports models.

After a full model change in 2017, the CBR1000RR Fibreblade and CBR1000RR Fireblade SP ARE enhanced for 2019, with changes to the electronics package aimed at optimal circuit performance. Thus, HSTC and ABS have been modified, and the top Power setting boosted based on input from the HRC MotoGP programme. Honda Selectable Torque Control and Wheelie Control functions are now separated, with a new ‘W’ indicator on the instrument panel.

The Grand Prix Red colour has a thicker white stripe for a slightly more ‘tricolore’ effect, while the Matt Ballistic Black Metallic version is now totally black, save for its red CBR logo.

Having been an instant hit on its arrival in 2017 and upgraded in 2018 with multi-level Honda Selectable Torque Control and a ‘G’ switch for more off-road friendly gear changes from its Dual Clutch Transmission, for 2019 Honda’s ‘motorcycle SUV’ will now come in new colours including a striking ‘camouflage’ green.

Synonymous with long range comfort, luxury and quality for over 40 years, the Gold Wing was redesigned from the wheels up for 2018 to be sharper, lighter and more compact, while maintaining its reputation as a technological flagship with numerous new features including the first adoption of Apple CarPlay on a motorcycle.

For 2019, both the GL1800 Gold Wing itself and the Manual Transmission version of the Gold Wing ‘Tour’ will be available in a new ‘moody’ Darkness Black Metallic colour.

The top of the range Gold Wing ‘Tour’ with Dual Clutch Transmission will be available in a new ‘Pearl Hawkseye Blue’. While pricing and availability in Australian is yet to be revealed, more information can be found at www.motorcycles.honda.com.au.

KTM pulls the covers off extensive new range at EICMA

KTM has pulled the covers off an extensive new range of motorcycles at EICMA in Milan to join its already impressive collection for 2019, the presentation being headlined by the highly-anticipated KTM 790 Adventure and 790 Adventure R.

The KTM 790 Adventure is for travel enduro fans of every ambition and ability, ready to discover new roads whichever way it’s pointed at – no matter surface. The KTM 790 Adventure R is a lightweight, agile and technically advanced machine for adventurers that endeavour to challenge themselves while challenging tricky terrain.

Both powered by the 799cc LC8c parallel twin – first seen in the KTM 790 Duke – the engine has been tuned to deliver its torque lower down the rev range to fit the specific requirements of adventure riding. The result is smooth acceleration, plentiful performance and a 450 km range from a 20-litre tank.

Each of these rugged bikes have been developed by some of the best adventure riders in the world and in conjunction with the Red Bull KTM Rally Factory Racing Team to provide a confidence-inspiring chassis with a low centre of gravity and riding ergonomics to suit riders of all sizes and spirit.

A full suite of rider assistance systems, easily navigated and activated with a bar-mounted menu switch, aligned to a full colour, TFT display, allow the adventurous to get the most from these machines in all situations. Both versions are anticipated to land in June 2019.

Elsewhere in the KTM Travel Enduro range, the incredible KTM 1090 Adventure R, KTM 1290 Super Adventure S and KTM 1290 Super Adventure R receive new colours and graphics to keep these exciting machines looking as sharp and bold as they perform.

Rebooting supermoto for the road, the KTM 690 SMC R returns in 2019 and takes the KTM Ready To Race approach to its purest incarnation on the street – lightweight, agile, addictive single-cylinder punch, premium chassis components and now backed up by leading performance-enhancing electronics.

Powering the KTM 690 SMC R is the latest generation LC4 engine – the world’s most powerful production single-cylinder engine dishes up a devastating 74hp and 73.5Nm of torque. Getting the most from this performance in all situations is a suite of rider assistance systems.

Two ride modes – Street and Sport – cornering ABS, lean angle-sensitive motorcycle traction control (MTC), motor slip regulation (MSR) and Quickshifter+ are new to the game, with the familiar Supermoto ABS mode aiding rear slides with front-end confidence.

All this is packaged in an updated chassis and new subframe, supported by the latest generation fully-adjustable WP APEX suspension and wrapped up in slimmer, sharper bodywork. Better still, the fun goes further with a 1.5-litre larger fuel tank. Expect this model to hit dealerships in March 2019.

The new KTM 690 Enduro R is even more perfectly positioned to connect the tarmac and trails, also benefitting from the same engine, electronics and chassis improvements made to its sliding Supermoto sibling, but in a platform completely focused on off-road.

Evolution means retaining everything that was good about the previous model and building on that. Under the new seat and fresh bodywork –sharpened for both style as well as better movement on the bike – is an all-new chassis with WP XPLOR suspension derived from KTM’s world-beating EXC models.

Designed to be confidence-inspiring with ease of handling, it is ready to tackle everything from easy trails to extreme off-road obstacles as well as being a competent every day street bike. Endless enduro without the need to ever trailer to the trails. KTM are anticipating the model will be available in April 2019.

As unveiled last month in Cologne, also joining the 2019 range is a sharper, stronger and more refined version of the KTM 1290 Super Duke GT. The most radical long-distance Sports Tourer on the market takes the best from ‘The Beast’ – phenomenal engine performance, street handling and race track capabilities of the KTM 1290 Super Duke R are brought into a machine that is as happy munching massive miles in comfort as it is carving up challenging corners.

Major updates to this premium machine can be found in the engine, suspension, electronics and bodywork with a focus on improving comfort and performance – be it while two-up touring, continent cruising or track attacking. Availability is pencilled in for February 2019. For more information, visit www.ktm.com/au.